U.S. patent application number 09/783883 was filed with the patent office on 2002-05-02 for spill-proof disposable cup with integral sealing flap.
Invention is credited to Schein, Gary M..
Application Number | 20020050514 09/783883 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27107451 |
Filed Date | 2002-05-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020050514 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Schein, Gary M. |
May 2, 2002 |
Spill-proof disposable cup with integral sealing flap
Abstract
A disposable container according to present invention is
embodied in a thin-walled container having an integral sealing
flap. Such containers include cups or other vessels for holding
beverages, food or other substances. The disposable container
preferably has a truncated conical shape. One example of such a
shape is a typical beverage cup commonly dispensed at fast food
restaurants and convenience stores. However, any shape or size of
disposable container may be used, so long as the container is
sealed using an integral sealing flap in accordance with the
present invention. Once the container has been filled it is closed
by squeezing or folding the top of the container together. The
container is then sealed by folding the integral sealing flap over
one side of the top of the closed container. In one embodiment, the
sealing flap is then secured using conventional adhesives that are
integral to either or both the surface of the container, and the
surface of the sealing flap. In addition, in one embodiment, the
adhesive is reusable, so that the container may be opened,
refilled, and then resealed. In another embodiment, the sealing
flap includes a bendable member that is used to wrap around either
edge of the top of the container after the sealing flap is folded
over one side of the top of the container to secure the sealing
flap in place. Additional embodiments include integral drinking
straws, pouring spouts, and a fill line to prevent overfilling the
container.
Inventors: |
Schein, Gary M.; (Oxnard,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
LYON, HARR & DEFRANK
300 Esplanade Drive, Suite 800
Oxnard
CA
93030
US
|
Family ID: |
27107451 |
Appl. No.: |
09/783883 |
Filed: |
February 13, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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09783883 |
Feb 13, 2001 |
|
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09705176 |
Nov 1, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
229/103.1 ;
220/705; 220/710; 229/4.5; 229/404; 229/5.5 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10S 383/906 20130101;
B65D 2231/02 20130101; Y10S 383/904 20130101; B65D 77/12 20130101;
Y02W 30/807 20150501; B65D 77/28 20130101; Y02W 30/80 20150501 |
Class at
Publication: |
229/103.1 ;
229/4.5; 229/5.5; 229/404; 220/705; 220/710 |
International
Class: |
B65D 003/10; B65D
003/28 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A spill-proof disposable container comprising: an integral
sealing flap extending from a primary side of the top of the
container; wherein the sealing flap is foldable for simultaneously
covering an opening of the disposable container and a secondary
side of the disposable container; a bendable member coupled to the
sealing flap for securely attaching the sealing flap to the
secondary side of the disposable container for sealing the
disposable container in a spill-proof state when the sealing flap
is folded for simultaneously covering the opening of the disposable
container and the secondary side of the disposable container; and a
frangible membrane disposed within a sidewall of the disposable
container.
2. The disposable container of claim 1 further comprising an
integral straw coupled to an interior wall of the disposable
container, and wherein an upper end of the straw extends through a
cutout in a sidewall of the container.
3. The disposable container of claim 2 wherein the straw is
disposed within a guide tube that is coupled to the interior wall
of the container.
4. The disposable container of claim 3 wherein the straw is
extensible by pulling on the upper end of the straw.
5. The disposable container of claim 2 wherein the cutout and the
upper end of the straw are covered by the frangible membrane.
6. The disposable container of claim 1 further comprising a fill
line disposed on the surface of the container for indicating a
maximum level for filling the container.
7. The disposable container of claim 1 wherein the frangible
membrane disposed within the sidewall of the disposable container
allows a straw to be inserted through the frangible membrane and
into the container.
8. The disposable container of claim 1 further comprising an
integral pouring spout coupled to the interior of a sidewall of the
container, and wherein the the integral pouring spout is initially
covered by the frangible membrane.
9. The disposable container of claim 1 further comprising a recess
in the exterior of a sidewall of the container for holding a
package containing a substance for mixing in the container.
10. A container assembly comprising: a container having a primary
side, a secondary side, and an opening disposed about the top of
the container; a sealing flap coupled to the primary side of the
top of the container, said sealing flap being foldable for
simultaneously covering the opening of the container and the
secondary side of the container; and a bendable member coupled to
the sealing flap for securely attaching the sealing flap to the
secondary side of the container assembly for sealing the container
assembly in a spill-proof state; and an integral straw coupled to
the interior of a sidewall of the container and extending through a
straw opening in the sidewall of the container.
11. The container assembly of claim 10 wherein the integral straw
is comprised of a straw disposed within a guide tube, and wherein
the guide tube is coupled to the interior of the sidewall of the
container.
12. The container assembly of claim 11 wherein the integral straw
is extensible, and wherein the straw is extended by pulling on a
top portion of the straw.
13. The container assembly of claim 10 wherein the integral straw
further includes a flexible joint at a point along the length of
the straw where the straw extends through the straw opening in the
sidewall of the container.
14. The container assembly of claim 10 wherein a plurality of
container assemblies are stackable, one within the next.
15. A method for sealing a disposable container having an integral
drinking tube comprising: a generally conical container having a
primary side and a secondary side disposed around an opening of the
container, said primary and secondary side being pushed together to
close the container; a sealing flap coupled to the primary side of
the container for sealing the container in a leak-proof condition,
said sealing flap being folded over the opening of the container
and the secondary side of the container for simultaneously covering
both the container opening and the secondary side of the container;
and attaching the sealing flap to the secondary side of the
container using bendable member coupled to the sealing flap for
maintaining the container in a leak-proof condition.
16. The method of claim 15 wherein the integral drinking tube
further comprises a straw disposed within the integral drinking
tube, and wherein the straw is extended for drinking by pulling on
an upper end of the straw.
17. The method of claim 16 further comprising a frangible membrane
for covering the upper end of the straw, and wherein the frangible
membrane is removed prior to extending the straw for drinking.
18. The method of claim 15 wherein the exterior of a sidewall of
the disposable container further comprises a recess for holding a
package containing a substance to be mixed in the container, and
wherein the package is accessible by removing a frangible membrane
covering the recess.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of application
Ser. No. 09/705,176 entitled "SPILL-PROOF DISPOSABLE CUP WITH
INTEGRAL SEALING FLAP" and filed on Nov. 1, 2000.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Technical Field
[0003] This invention relates to disposable containers such as cups
or cartons having an integral sealing flap for sealing the
container to eliminate the possibility of spillage of beverages,
liquids, or other substances held within the container.
[0004] 2. Related Art
[0005] Disposable containers such as cups and cartons for holding
beverages have been available for many years. Such containers are
commonly dispensed at fast food restaurants and convenience stores
for serving beverages. Typically, these containers are sealed with
a plastic lid that fits over a top opening of the container so as
to close the container. These lids often include holes in which
straws can be placed such that a user can drink a beverage in a cup
from the straw as it protrudes through the lid and into the cup.
Other types of lids used to seal or cover containers include a type
of hinged panel that a user can pull back or push in so as to drink
from a cup while the lid is still attached. Such lids are often
used with hot beverages such as coffee or tea.
[0006] Over the years, various schemes have been suggested or
adopted for ensuring a tighter or more secure fit for the lids
described above. However, regardless of how loose or how tight such
lids fit, they are prone to accidental or inadvertent removal. For
example, if a container employing a removable plastic lid is
dropped, squeezed too hard, or simply tipped over, the end result
is often that the lid separates from the container, with the
beverage or liquid held within the container winding up either on
the ground, all over an unlucky user who had been holding the cup,
or all over an innocent bystander.
[0007] The problem of dropping or knocking over cups and containers
is especially common with very young children. Consequently, it is
uncommon to see disposable cups with plastic lids, as described
above, being used in a home with young children, as the foreseeable
result of such use is often a rather large wet mess. Instead, in a
home having young children, hard plastic beverage cups with
screw-on lids having either a drinking spout or a hole for a straw
are commonly used. However, such beverage cups are not disposable.
Consequently, they require more work in that they are typically
washed between uses. Further, if a lid is misplaced, they cups are
of little use because of the likelihood of spillage by a young
child.
[0008] Still other solutions have involved complex, and thus
expensive, schemes for ensuring that lids placed on containers or
cups are less likely to be inadvertently removed. However, because
it is more difficult for such lids to be removed, it is also more
difficult to put such lids on in the first place.
[0009] Another solution that has been used for sealing disposable
containers for beverages, food or other substances involves a
folding gable top. Typically, the container is filled with a
beverage, food or other substance, and then the top of the
container is folded together in a manner similar to that of a
conventional paper milk carton. A small plastic clip or the like
typically holds the top of the carton together so as to seal the
carton. While this solution tends to be somewhat more secure than
using a disposable plastic lid, as described above, it has several
drawbacks. First, such containers tend to be more expensive to
manufacture than a traditional cup or container because of the
numerous folds required to create a gable top. Further, the clips
that hold the top closed are rather small, and in some instances
can be somewhat fragile. Consequently, if the clip is misplaced or
damaged, there is no way to seal the container in order to prevent
spills.
[0010] Therefore, in order to overcome the limitations of current
disposable containers, what is needed is a container that can be
securely sealed, after being filled with beverages, food or other
substances, without relying on a removable lid. Further, once the
seal is engaged, it should not be subject to inadvertent opening or
removal such as by dropping or squeezing the container. Finally,
the container should not rely on separate devices, such as clips,
to hold the container closed or sealed.
SUMMARY
[0011] The present invention involves a spill-proof disposable
container, such as a cup or carton for holding beverages, food or
other substances. This disposable container satisfies all of the
foregoing needs. Specifically, the container is capable of being
securely sealed without the need to employ removable lids, clips or
other devices. Further, the seal employed by the disposable
container of the present invention is not subject to inadvertent
opening by either dropping or squeezing the disposable container.
In addition, the disposable container can be easily and
inexpensively manufactured from conventional materials such as, for
example, paper, plastic, or a polymer or wax coated paper as is
commonly used for disposable drinking vessels. Further, such
materials are also used in one embodiment for producing an
insulating embodiment of a disposable container for holding hot or
cold liquids or other substances in accordance with the present
invention. In addition, in one embodiment, the disposable container
is reusable such that it is capable of being sealed, opened, and
resealed a plurality of times. Finally, the disposable container of
the present invention can be manufactured in any desired size to
provide any desired storage volume when sealed.
[0012] A disposable container according to present invention is
embodied in a thin-walled container having an integral sealing
flap. Such containers include cups or other vessels for holding
beverages, food or other substances. The disposable container
preferably has a truncated conical shape. One example of such a
shape is a typical beverage cup commonly dispensed at fast food
restaurants and convenience stores. However, any shape or size of
disposable container may be used, so long as the container is
sealed in accordance with the present invention. For example, in
one embodiment a container having a folding gable top with an
integral sealing flap is used. Regardless of the shape or style of
the container, once the container has been filled, it is closed by
squeezing or folding the top of the container together. The
container is then sealed by folding the integral sealing flap over
one side of the top of the closed container. In one embodiment, the
sealing flap is then secured using conventional adhesives, such as,
for example, glue, rubber cement, or tape, that are integral to
either or both the surface of the container, or the surface of the
sealing flap. In addition, in one embodiment, the adhesive is
reusable, so that the container may be opened, refilled, and then
resealed. In another embodiment, the sealing flap includes a
bendable member that is used to wrap around either edge of the top
of the container after the sealing flap is folded over one side of
the top of the container to secure the sealing flap in place.
Further, because the volume of the container may be lessened by
squeezing or folding the top of the container together, as
described above, in one embodiment, a fill-line is included on
either the interior or exterior surface of the container for
alerting the user to a maximum volume for the sealed container.
[0013] As discussed above, unlike conventional containers using
removable lids, disposable containers in accordance with the
present invention are sealed either with adhesive or with a
bendable member coupled to the sealing flap. Consequently, once
sealed, such disposable containers invention are much less likely
to be inadvertently opened, such as by squeezing, dropping, or
knocking over the container, then are conventional containers using
removable lids. Consequently, disposable containers according to
the present invention can also provide a safety advantage over
conventional containers by reducing or eliminating slippery puddles
caused by inadvertent spills of beverages, food, or other
substances contained within the disposable container. Similarly,
because disposable containers according to the present invention
can also be manufactured from insulating materials, hot liquids
held within such containers are less likely to spill, for the
aforementioned reasons, than is an identical liquid when held in a
conventional container using a removable lid. Clearly, preventing
the spillage of hot liquids results in a safety advantage over
conventional disposable containers having removable lids by
reducing the likelihood of burns or scalding when spilled hot
liquid comes into contact with a victims skin.
[0014] Because the container is thin walled, as described above, it
is preferably stackable, one container within the next, such as is
typically seen with beverage cups in conventional dispensers. In
fact, the containers may be sized to fit any type of conventional
container dispenser. Consequently, such containers are useful for
replacing existing beverage containers in places such as fast food
restaurants, and convenience stores, as well as in dispensers for
home use. This is especially true because as described above,
disposable containers in accordance with the present invention do
not use separate lids. Consequently, use of such containers serves
to reduce both cost and storage space requirements by eliminating
the need to supply lids with the containers.
[0015] In one embodiment of the disposable container invention of
the present invention, the integral sealing flap extends above a
primary side of the opening of the container. Consequently, as the
container opening is pushed together, the sealing flap is folded
over a secondary side of the opening and fixed in place in
alternate embodiments using either adhesive or a bendable member
coupled to the sealing flap, as described above, to securely seal
the disposable container. When using this embodiment of the
disposable container as a drinking cup, in a non-closed, non-sealed
condition, a user typically drinks from the secondary side of the
opening to prevent spillage because the rim of the secondary side
is lower than the integral sealing flap extending from the primary
side.
[0016] In a similar embodiment of the disposable container, the
integral sealing flap is initially folded back against the exterior
wall of the container below the primary side of the container
opening. Assuming a round container opening, the integral sealing
flap is locked into place by nature of the container geometry until
the top of the container is pushed together, as described above.
Once the top of the container is pushed together, the curved rim of
the opening becomes straight, thereby allowing the integral sealing
rim to be folded up and then over the secondary side of the
opening, as described above. Finally, as described above, the
sealing flap is then fixed in place in alternate embodiments using
either adhesive or a bendable member coupled to the sealing flap,
to securely seal the disposable container. Further, when using this
embodiment of the disposable container as a drinking cup, in a
non-closed, non-sealed condition, a user may drink from any side or
portion of the container opening, because the entire rim of the
container opening is at the same level.
[0017] In another embodiment of the disposable container, the upper
portion of the exterior wall is perforated in at least two
locations. Tearing the perforations results in a sealing flap on
the primary side of the container opening, and an extra flap on the
secondary side of the container opening. In operation, the extra
flap is folded down into the interior of the opening of the
container. Alternately, the extra flap is removed by tearing a
perforation at the base of the extra flap. Either way, the
container is then essentially in the same configuration as
described above for the embodiment wherein the integral sealing
flap extends above the primary side of the container. Thus, as
described above, the container is closed by pushing together the
primary and secondary sides of the container opening. The container
is then sealed by folding the sealing flap over the secondary side
of the opening and fixed in place using adhesive, as described
above, to securely seal the disposable container. Further, when
using this embodiment of the disposable container as a drinking
cup, in a non-closed, non-sealed condition, prior to tearing the
perforations, a user may drink from any side or portion of the
container opening, because the entire rim of the container opening
is at the same level.
[0018] Further, in an embodiment related to the embodiment wherein
the extra flap is removed by tearing the perforation at the base of
the flap, the extra flap contains printed information such as
textual or graphical information, or both. Consequently, the extra
flap containing printed information can be used as a removable game
piece, coupon, advertising, etc., simply by tearing the perforation
to remove the extra flap from the container.
[0019] Each embodiment of the disposable container may also include
a frangible area in the exterior wall of the container near the
opening. This frangible cover allows a straw or drinking tube to be
placed through the exterior wall of the container once the
container has been sealed as described above.
[0020] In a further embodiment, the disposable container includes
an integral straw or drinking tube that protrudes through the
exterior wall of the container. This integral straw preferably
includes a flexible joint or elbow at the location where it
protrudes through the exterior wall of the container. The integral
straw can be used whether the disposable container has been sealed
or not.
[0021] In a related embodiment, the disposable container includes
an integral extensible straw or drinking tube. This straw is
disposed within a guide tube affixed to the interior wall of
container. The straw is manually extended by pulling on an upper
end of the straw, which protrudes through an opening in the
exterior wall of the container near the container opening. A snug
fit between the guide tube and the straw ensures that the guide
tube acts as an extension to the straw when the straw is extended.
Consequently, when a user drinks from the extended straw, suction
is maintained both in the straw and in the guide tube. In one
embodiment, a recess in the exterior wall of the container near the
opening allows user access to the upper end of the straw. One
advantage of including the recess in the exterior wall of the
container to provide access to the extensible straw is that the
outer surface of the container does not have any protuberances when
the straw is not extended. As a result, such containers are easily
stackable, one container within the next, as described above.
Further, in another embodiment, access to the upper end of the
straw is covered with a frangible membrane. Consequently, the straw
is not accessible until a user removes the membrane.
[0022] Further, in one embodiment, the disposable container is
designed with a pouring spout. This pouring spout is accessible to
a user whether or not the disposable container has been sealed.
Further, the pouring spout is preferably recessed within the
disposable container such that it does not protrude from the
exterior wall of the container until it has been extended by a
user. Further, in another embodiment, access to the pouring spout
is covered with a frangible membrane. Consequently, the pouring
spout is not accessible until a user removes the membrane.
[0023] In still another embodiment of the disposable container, a
recess is disposed within the surface of the exterior wall of the
container, or within the exterior of a bottom wall of the
container. In either embodiment, this recess is used to contain a
package for holding a single serving or portion of powdered or
liquid drink mix, sweeteners, or any other desired compound. Such
an embodiment is extremely useful in households having small
children, especially when combined with one of the embodiments
described above that include an integral straw. For example, where
the contents of the package are a powdered drink mix, the user
first removes the package from the recess. The user then opens the
package and pours the contents into the container. Finally, the
user adds water, or whatever other fluid is to be mixed with the
contents of the package, and seals the container as described
above. The result is an instant drink in a spill-proof container,
having an integral straw. Such a combination is clearly ideal for
small children. In another embodiment, access to the package is
covered with a frangible membrane. Consequently, the package is not
accessible until a user removes the membrane.
[0024] In a related embodiment, the package for holding a single
serving or portion of powdered or liquid drink mix, sweeteners, or
any other desired compound, as described above, may be one of the
frangible membranes discussed above. Specifically, in the
embodiment wherein the frangible membrane is used to cover access
to the integral straw, the membrane also serves as the package,
with one side of the package covering access to the integral straw.
In this embodiment, removing the package to access the contents of
the package also serves to provide access to the upper end of the
integral straw as described above. Similarly, in the embodiment
wherein the frangible membrane covers access to the integral
pouring spout, the membrane again serves as the package, with one
side of the package covering access to the integral pouring spout.
In this embodiment, removing the package to access the contents of
the package also serves to provide access to the integral pouring
spout as described above.
[0025] Finally, in another embodiment, the disposable container
includes a conventional scratch-off, rub-off, or peel-off label on
the exterior surface of the container. Such removable labels are
typically used for advertising or entertainment purposes.
[0026] The foregoing and still further features and advantages of
the present invention as well as a more complete understanding
thereof will be made apparent from a study of the following
detailed description of the invention in connection with the
accompanying drawings and appended claims.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] The specific features, aspects, and advantages of the
present invention will become better understood with regard to the
following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings
in which like reference numbers represent corresponding parts
throughout.
[0028] FIG. 1 is an exemplary perspective view of a disposable
container according to the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 2 is a side view of the disposable container of FIG.
1.
[0030] FIG. 3 is an exemplary side view of an alternate embodiment
of a disposable container according to the present invention.
[0031] FIG. 4 is a perspective side view of the disposable
container of FIG. 1, shown in a closed state.
[0032] FIG. 5 is a perspective side view of the disposable
container of FIG. 1, shown in a sealed state.
[0033] FIG. 6 is an exemplary side view of an alternate embodiment
of a disposable container according to the present invention shown
with an integral drinking straw.
[0034] FIG. 7 is an exemplary side view of an alternate embodiment
of a disposable container according to the present invention shown
with an integral extensible drinking straw.
[0035] FIG. 8A is an exemplary side view of an alternate embodiment
of a disposable container according to the present invention shown
with an integral extensible drinking straw.
[0036] FIG. 8B is an exemplary side view of an alternate embodiment
of a disposable container according to the present invention shown
with angled perforations for a sealing flap.
[0037] FIG. 8C is an exemplary front view of the disposable
container of FIG. 8B shown with the seal tabs extending from either
edge of the sealing flap.
[0038] FIG. 9 is a side view of the disposable container of FIG. 7,
shown in a sealed state with the extensible drinking straw in an
extended position.
[0039] FIG. 10 is an exemplary side view of an alternate embodiment
of a disposable container according to the present invention shown
with an integral pouring spout.
[0040] FIG. 11 is a side view of the disposable container of FIG.
11, shown in a sealed state with the pouring spout extended.
[0041] FIG. 12 is a top view of the disposable container of FIG.
10.
[0042] FIG. 13 is an exemplary perspective view of a disposable
container shown in a closed unsealed state.
[0043] FIG. 14A is an exemplary perspective view of an alternate
embodiment of a disposable container shown in an open state and
having a bendable member coupled to a sealing flap for securing the
sealing flap in a sealed state.
[0044] FIG. 14B is a side view of the disposable container of FIG.
14A shown in a closed state with the bendable securing the sealing
flap in a sealed state.
[0045] FIG. 14C is a top view of the disposable container of FIG.
14A shown in a closed state with the bendable securing the sealing
flap in a sealed state.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0046] In the following description of the preferred embodiments of
the present invention, reference is made to the accompanying
drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of
illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be
practiced. It is understood that other embodiments may be utilized
and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope
of the present invention.
[0047] Introduction
[0048] A disposable container according to present invention is
embodied in a thin-walled container having an integral sealing
flap. Such containers include cups or other vessels for holding
beverages, food or other substances. The disposable container
preferably has a truncated conical shape. One example of such a
shape is a typical beverage cup commonly dispensed at fast food
restaurants and convenience stores. However, any shape or size of
disposable container may be used, so long as the container is
sealed in accordance with the present invention. However,
regardless of the shape or style of the container, once the
container has been filled, it is closed by pushing, squeezing or
folding the top of the container together. The container is then
sealed by folding the integral sealing flap over one side of the
top of the closed container. In one embodiment, the sealing flap is
then secured using integral conventional adhesives, such as, for
example, glue, rubber cement, tape, or some combination thereof.
These adhesives are integral to either or both the surface of the
container, and the surface of the sealing flap. In another
embodiment, the sealing flap includes a bendable member that is
used to wrap around either edge of the top of the container after
the sealing flap is folded over one side of the top of the
container to secure the sealing flap in place.
[0049] Components
[0050] As illustrated in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the disposable
container 100 includes an integral sealing flap 110 extending above
a primary side 120 of a container opening 130. In operation, as
described in further detail below, the integral sealing flap 110 is
folded over a secondary side 140 of the container opening 130 to
close the container 100. Further, in one embodiment, the integral
sealing flap 110 is preferably coated with a conventional adhesive
160, such as glue, rubber cement, tape, or some combination
thereof, for fixedly attaching the integral sealing flap the
exterior of the secondary side 140 of the container opening 130 in
order to securely seal the container 100.
[0051] The adhesive 160 is prepared for use in any one of several
ways. First, the adhesive may be covered with a conventional
removable strip. In this embodiment, the strip is simply removed
prior to adhering the integral sealing flap 110 to the secondary
side 140 of the canister opening 130. Further, in this embodiment,
the container 100 can be designed with the adhesive 160 on either
or both the sealing flap 110 and the secondary side 140 of the
container opening 130. Alternately, where a contact type adhesive
is used, such as rubber cement, the adhesive 160 is pre-positioned
on both the integral sealing flap 110 and the secondary side 140 of
the canister opening 130. Consequently, in this embodiment, as soon
as the integral sealing flap 110 comes into contact with the
secondary side 140 of the canister opening 130, the sealing flap
will be bonded to the secondary side of the container opening,
thereby sealing the container. In still another embodiment, a piece
of tape is integrated into either or both the sealing flap 110 and
the secondary side 140 of the container opening 130. In such an
embodiment, the integral sealing flap 110 is secured in place over
the secondary side 140 of the container opening 130 to seal the
container 100. In addition, in one embodiment, the adhesive 160 is
reusable, using conventional techniques, so that the container 100
may be opened, refilled, and then resealed.
[0052] Further, in one embodiment, a frangible membrane,
perforation, or cutout 150 in the surface of the container 100
allows a straw or drinking tube to be placed through the wall of
the container and into a fluid or beverage contained therein. This
feature may also be included in each of the alternate embodiments
discussed below.
[0053] Additionally, because the volume of the container may be
lessened by squeezing or folding the top of the container together,
as described above, in one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2 a
fill-line 200 is included on either the interior or exterior
surface of the container 100 for alerting the user to a maximum
volume for the sealed container.
[0054] In a further embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 3, the
integral sealing flap 110 is initially folded down over the
exterior of the primary side 120 of the container opening 130. In
this embodiment both the primary side 120 and the secondary side
140 of the container opening 130 are at the same level, making it
easier for a user to drink from the container 100 when used in an
un-closed, unsealed state.
[0055] Operation
[0056] The following discussion provides an exemplary description
of a preferred mode of operation. This discussion is intended for
illustrative purposes only, and is not intended to limit the scope
of the invention. The following discussion describes methods for
closing and sealing the disposable container 100 in accordance with
the present invention with reference to FIGS. 1, 4 and 5. FIG. 4
and FIG. 5 are exemplary side views of the disposable container 100
shown in FIG. 1. Specifically, FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of
the disposable container 100 in a closed state, while FIG. 5 shows
of perspective view of the disposable container 100 in a sealed
state.
[0057] In a preferred embodiment of the disposable container 100,
the integral sealing flap 110 extends above the primary side 120 of
the container opening 130. In this embodiment the container is
closed by simply pushing or squeezing together the primary and
secondary sides, 120 and 140, of the container opening 130. Next,
once the primary and secondary sides 120 and 140, of the container
opening 130 are in contact, (FIG. 4) the integral sealing flap 110
is folded over the secondary side 140 of the opening and fixed in
place using the integral adhesive 160, as described above, to
securely seal the disposable container 100 (FIG. 5). Further, when
using this embodiment of the disposable container 100 as a drinking
cup, in a non-closed, non-sealed condition, a user typically drinks
from the secondary side 140 of the container opening 130 to prevent
spillage because the rim of the secondary side is lower than the
integral sealing flap 110 extending from the primary side 120.
[0058] In a similar embodiment of the disposable container, the
integral sealing flap 110 is initially folded back against the
exterior wall of the container below the primary side 120 of the
container opening 130. Assuming a round container opening, the
integral sealing flap 110 is locked into place by nature of the
container 100 geometry until the top of the container is pushed
together, as described above, in order to close the container. Once
the top of the container 100 is closed, the curved rim of the
opening 130 becomes straight, thereby allowing the integral sealing
rim 110 to be folded up and then over the secondary side 140 of the
opening, as described above. Finally, as described above, the
sealing flap 110 is then fixed in place using adhesive 160 to
securely seal the disposable container 100. Further, when using
this embodiment of the disposable container 100 as a drinking cup,
in a non-closed, non-sealed condition, a user may drink from any
side or portion of the container opening 130, because the entire
rim of the container opening is at the same level.
[0059] In addition, as discussed above, the container 100 may also
include the frangible membrane, perforation, or cutout 150 in the
surface of the container 100 for allowing a straw or drinking tube
to be placed through the wall of the container and into a fluid or
beverage contained therein. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5,
straw 500 extends through the wall of the container 100 via the
perforation 150. In operation, the straw 500 is simply pushed
through the membrane, perforation, or cutout 150 when a user
desires to use the straw.
[0060] Additional Embodiments
[0061] In a further embodiment, as illustrated by FIG. 6, the
disposable container 100 includes an integral straw or drinking
tube 600 that protrudes through the exterior wall of the container.
This integral straw 600 preferably includes a flexible joint or
elbow 610 at the location where it protrudes through the exterior
wall of the container 100. The flexible joint 610 allows the straw
600 to be adjusted to suit the preferences of the user. The
integral straw 600 is securely affixed to the container 100, and
can be used whether the disposable container has been sealed or
not.
[0062] FIG. 6 also illustrates an embodiment wherein the adhesive
160 is integral to the secondary side 140 of the container opening
130. In this embodiment, the integral sealing flap 110 operates as
described above in adhering to the secondary side 140 of the
container opening 130. The only difference is the location of the
adhesive 160, which operates in the manner described above.
[0063] In related embodiments illustrated in FIG. 7, and FIG. 8A,
the disposable container 100 includes an integral extensible straw
or drinking tube 710. This extensible straw 710 is disposed within
a guide tube 720 affixed to the interior wall 725 of the container
100. The extensible straw 710 is manually extended by pulling on an
upper end 730 of the straw, which protrudes through an opening 740
in the exterior wall of the container near the container opening
130. A snug fit between the guide tube 720 and the extensible straw
710 ensures that the guide tube acts as an extension to the straw
when the straw is extended. Consequently, when a user drinks from
the extended straw 710, suction is maintained both in the
extensible straw and in the guide tube 720. Further, in another
embodiment, access to the upper end of the straw is covered with a
frangible membrane 760. Consequently, the extensible straw 710 is
not accessible until a user removes or tears the frangible membrane
760.
[0064] In one embodiment (FIG. 7), a recess 750 in the exterior
wall of the container 100 near the opening 130 allows user access
to the upper end 730 of the extensible straw 710. One advantage of
including the recess 750 in the exterior wall of the container 100
to provide access to the extensible straw 710 is that the outer
surface of the container does not have any protuberances when the
straw is not extended. As a result, such containers 100 are easily
stackable, one container within the next, as described above.
[0065] In another embodiment of the disposable container 100 as
illustrated by both FIG. 7 and FIG. 8A, an upper portion 770 of the
exterior wall of the container 100 is perforated 780 and 785 in at
least two locations equidistant around the rim of the container
100. Note that as a side view is shown by FIG. 7, FIG. 8A, and FIG.
8B, only the perforation 780 in the foreground can be seen in the
figures, with perforation 785 being behind perforation 780, as
illustrated. Tearing the perforations 780 and 785 results in a
sealing flap 110 on the primary side 120 of the container opening
130, and an extra flap 790 on the secondary side 140 of the
container opening 130. In a related embodiment, the perforations,
780 and 785 are placed at an angle to the vertical as illustrated
in FIG. 8B. In a tested embodiment, a 45 degrees angle was used.
Placing the perforations at an angle serves to create seal tabs 786
and 787 on either edge of the sealing flap 110. These seal tabs,
786 and 787 are useful for wrapping around the sides of the top of
the container 100 when the sealing flap 110 is folded over the top
of the container 100 to more securely seal the container. The seal
tabs, 786 and 787, are illustrated in FIG. 8C which shows a front
view of the sealing tab 110 after tearing the perforations 780 and
785.
[0066] Further, when using any of these embodiments of the
disposable container 100 as a drinking cup, in a non-closed,
non-sealed condition, prior to tearing the perforations 780 and
785, a user may drink from any side or portion of the container
opening 130, because the entire rim of the container opening is at
the same level.
[0067] In operation, as illustrated by FIG. 7, 8 and 9, the extra
flap 790 is folded down into the interior of the opening 130 of the
container 100. Alternately, the extra flap 790 is removed by
tearing a perforation 795 at the base of the extra flap. Either
way, the container 100 is then essentially in the same
configuration as described above for the embodiment wherein the
integral sealing flap 110 extends above the primary side 120 of the
container 100. Thus, as described above, the container 100 is
closed by simply pushing or squeezing together the primary and
secondary sides, 120 and 140, of the container opening 130. Next,
once the primary and secondary sides 120 and 140, of the container
opening 130 are in contact, the integral sealing flap 110 is folded
over the secondary side 140 of the opening and fixed in place using
the integral adhesive 160, as described above, to securely seal the
disposable container 100.
[0068] Further, in an embodiment related to the embodiment wherein
the extra flap 790 is removed by tearing the perforation 795 at the
base of the extra flap, the extra flap contains printed information
such as textual or graphical information, or both. Consequently,
the extra flap 790 containing printed information can be used as a
removable game piece, coupon, advertising, etc., simply by tearing
the perforation 795 to remove the extra flap from the container
100.
[0069] In a further embodiment, as illustrated by FIG. 10, the
disposable container 100 is designed with a pouring spout 1010.
This pouring spout 1010 is accessible to a user whether or not the
disposable container 100 has been sealed. Further, the pouring
spout 1010 is preferably recessed within the disposable container
100 such that it does not protrude from the exterior wall of the
container until it has been extended by a user as illustrated by
FIG. 11. Further, in another embodiment, access to the pouring
spout 1010 is covered with a frangible membrane 1020. Consequently,
the pouring spout is not accessible until a user removes or tears
the membrane 1020. Each of these embodiments is closed and sealed
as described above using any of the aforementioned embodiments of
the integral sealing flap 110.
[0070] In still another embodiment of the disposable container 100,
as illustrated by FIG. 10 and FIG. 12, a recess 1030 is disposed
within the surface of the exterior wall of the container, or within
the exterior of a bottom wall 1040 of the container. In either
embodiment, this recess 1030 is used to contain a package 1050 for
holding a single serving or portion of powdered or liquid drink
mix, sweeteners, or any other desired compound. Such an embodiment
is extremely useful in households having small children, especially
when combined with one of the aforementioned embodiments including
an integral straw. For example, where the contents of the package
1050 are a powdered drink mix, the user first removes the package
from the recess 1030. The user then opens the package 1050 and
pours the contents into the container 100. Finally, the user adds
water, or whatever other fluid is to be mixed with the contents of
the package 1050, and seals the container 100 as described above.
The result is an instant drink in a spill-proof container, having
an integral straw. Such a combination is clearly ideal for small
children. In another embodiment, access to the package is covered
with a frangible membrane 1060. Consequently, the package 1050 is
not accessible until a user removes or tears the membrane 1060.
[0071] In a related embodiment, the package 1050 may be one of the
frangible membranes discussed above (i.e., frangible membrane 760
of FIG. 7 and FIG. 8A, and frangible membrane 1020 of FIG. 10).
Specifically, with reference to FIG. 7 and FIG. 8A, in the
embodiment wherein the frangible membrane 760 is used to cover
access to the integral straw 710, the membrane also serves as the
package, with one side of the package covering access to the
integral straw. In this embodiment, removing the membrane 760 to
access the contents of the package also serves to provide access to
the upper end of the integral straw 710 as described above.
Similarly, with reference to FIG. 10, in the embodiment wherein the
frangible membrane 1020 covers access to the integral pouring spout
1010, the membrane again serves as the package, with one side of
the package covering access to the integral pouring spout. In this
embodiment, removing the membrane 1020 to access the contents of
the package also serves to provide access to the integral pouring
spout 1010 as described above.
[0072] In an additional embodiment of the disposable container, as
illustrated in FIG. 13 a container 1310 having a folding gable top
with an integral sealing flap 110 is used. FIG. 13 illustrates this
container in a closed, non-sealed condition. In operation, this
container 1310 is folded together in order to close the container
in a manner similar to that of a conventional paper milk carton.
This container 1310 is sealed as described above, by folding the
integral sealing flap 110 over the secondary side 140 of the
container opening, and fixedly attaching the integral sealing flap
to the exterior of the secondary side of the container opening in
order to securely seal the container 1310.
[0073] FIG. 13 further illustrates the inclusion of the frangible
membrane, perforation, or cutout 150 in the surface of the
container 1310 to allow a straw or drinking tube to be placed
through the wall of the container as described above.
[0074] In another embodiment, also as illustrated in FIG. 13, the
disposable container 1310 includes a conventional scratch-off,
rub-off, or peel-off label 1320 on the exterior surface of the
container. Such removable labels are typically used for advertising
or entertainment purposes. Clearly, such a label 1320 can be
included with any of the aforementioned embodiments.
[0075] Finally, in another embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 14A,
14B, and 14C, the disposable container 1400 has a sealing flap 1410
that further includes a bendable member 1420 coupled to the sealing
flap. This bendable member 1420 is used to wrap around either edge
of the top 1430 of the container 1400 after the sealing flap 1410
is folded over one side of the top of the container to secure the
sealing flap in place. Further, to improve the seal, in one
embodiment the top 1430 of the container 1400 is folded over on
itself (see FIG. 14B) after the sealing flap 1410 is folded over
one side of the top of the container, at which point the bendable
member 1420 is used to wrap around either edge of the top 1430 of
the container to securely seal the container. Further, the
container may be opened and reused by simply unbending the bendable
member 1420, and unfolding the top of the container, thereby
reversing the above-described sealing process. FIG. 14A illustrates
the disposable container in an open condition, while FIG. 14B and
14C illustrate a side view and a top view, respectively, of the
disposable container in a closed, sealed condition. In addition, in
further embodiments, this embodiment includes each of the
aforementioned embodiments such, for example, integral drinking
straws, perforated holes for inserting drinking straws, integral
pouring spouts, and recesses for holding integral drink mix
packages.
[0076] The foregoing description of the invention has been
presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is
not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the
precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are
possible in light of the above teaching. For example, one or more
of the aforementioned embodiments may be combined to produce a
plurality of hybrid embodiments of a disposable container in
accordance with the present invention. Thus, it is intended that
the scope of the invention be limited not by this detailed
description, but rather by the claims appended hereto.
* * * * *